Over the past week or so, we've seen useful applications such as Box Office and NetShare get removed from the iPhone App Store. In the case of NetShare, it's been removed, put back and then removed again. While some developers anxiously await acceptance into the App Store, programs such as "I Am Rich" get approved, which calls into question the entire App approval process.

"I Am Rich" Application Retails for $999.99 and does nothing more than reveal a red icon".

For those who haven't stumbled upon "I Am Rich", the application is nestled in the Lifestyle section of the iPhone App Store and it's priced at a cool $999.99. My guess is that it's priced at the ceiling of iPhone Apps. So, what do you get for $999.99? You get a red icon on your iPhone or iPod touch that reminds you (and others) that you were able to afford this. Pressing "i" doesn't reveal any options, other than a mantra reminding some self-absorbed individual to stay rich, healthy and successful. While it's doubtful that anyone in their right mind would purchase such a ridiculous app, it's a prime example of the lack of quality control evident in the iPhone App Store.

The developer is also responsible for Calc Pro and recommends that users who cannot afford "I Am Rich" to check out his other applications. One can surmise that once you gain entry into the iPhone App Store, it's not difficult to get approvals. This is probably more of a marketing ploy by this particular developer, than his desire to market an $999.99 application. As we illustrated a few weeks ago, Apple needs to more stringent on App approvals. With the pace at which apps are getting added, the iPhone App Store runs the risk of being overcrowded and some of the well designed apps will get lost in the shuffle.